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TUC Joins Anti-Galamsey Crusade – Threatens Nationwide Strike Action
Trade Union Congress, the mother of all labour union in Ghana has added to the pressure being piled on President Akufo-Addo to ban both legal and illegal small scale mining to save the nation from the wreckage of government backed environmental terrorists.
The leadership of Organised Labour is threatening to stage nationwide strike if government fails to ban all forms of small scale mining activities by September 30.
The latest threaten comes as a support to earlier ones issued by civil society groups (CSOs), members of Organized Labour like the University Teachers Association of Ghana (UTAG), Health Sector Associations and Unions, the Ghana Medical Association (GMA), the Catholic Bishops Conference, Occupy Ghana who have all called for an immediate ban or they strike by the end of this month.
At a news conference yesterday Wednesday September 11 in Accra, they vowed not to back down on their demands until the President bans all mining activities.
In a statement after a crunch meeting, Joshua Ansah, Secretary General of the TUC, vowed not to bow down until their demands including a complete ban on small scale mining in forests and water bodies across the Ashanti, Eastern, Central and Western Regions are met.
They also demanded the immediate declaration of a state of emergency in all areas affected by illegal mining.
Organized Labour also called for the establishment of special courts to fast-track the prosecution of galamsey operators, and the deployment of the men of the Ghana Armed Force (GAF) to remove and destroy all mining equipment in affected areas.
It also wants revocation of LI2462 and withdrawal of all prospecting and mining licenses issued for activities in forest and protected reserves, as well as near water bodies. The establishment of a special court to prosecute those responsible for illegal mining activities.
Organized Labour expressed deep concern over the growing public discourse on the issue, noting the destruction of forest cover, water bodies, and agricultural lands.
They also highlighted the severe health risks posed to communities near galamsey sites, including exposure to hazardous chemicals such as mercury and cyanide, and the increase in respiratory and waterborne diseases.
The statement underscored the rapid depletion of Ghana’s forest cover and the unprecedented pollution of its water bodies, citing the recent concerns of the Ghana Water Company Limited (GWCL) leading reduction in their production of water by 30 percent. The GWCL has been unable to provide adequate water supply to towns such as Cape Coast and Elmina due to the severe contamination of the River Pra.
Joshua Ansah stressed that the government’s failure to act swiftly and decisively on the galamsey menace has resulted in severe environmental degradation, including the destruction of rivers, farmlands, and forest reserves.
Meanwhile, while Organized Labour forcefully made their demands known to the government through the press conference, the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining, was calling on the government to act swiftly to address the menace.
During a press conference at the Press Cnetre in Accra, Most Rev. Matthew Kwasi Gyamfi, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference, highlighted the urgent need for action.
He expressed deep concern over the involvement of some chiefs and political figures in these illegal activities, highlighting the corruption that exacerbates the problem.
“The lack of political will has further exacerbated the problem allowing illegal mining to thrive unchecked.
“We wish to state that Ghanaians can no longer tolerate the lip service of the government of whatever colour in the fight against galamsey and we call for action not tomorrow but now and right from this press conference and all hands must get on board,” he stated.
The President of the Ghana Journalists Association (GJA), Albert Kwabena Dwumfour said in the mining communities, law and order are crumbling under the weight of impunity with associated human rights abuses.
He explained that illegal mining in Ghana, known as “galamsey,” has caused severe environmental devastation, leading to the shutdown of water treatment facilities. Communities near the Densu River, a vital source of water for Accra, are suffering due to the pollution of rivers once critical for survival.
He highlighted that, environmental destruction extends to forest reserves such as the Atiwa Forest, where illegal miners are tearing apart ecosystems without fear or favour.
Communities like Osino and Konongo have been particularly affected, with lives lost due to unsafe mining practices. “A pregnant woman died in 2023, and another man lost his life in 2024 in mining-related accidents”.
He pointed out that, to environmental damage, vital infrastructure in regions like Ayinam, Enchi, and parts of the Western Region is at risk of collapse.
The situation has escalated to the point where armed illegal miners recently chased away a government enforcement team, highlighting the undermining of national security and the increasing boldness of illegal miners.
He underscored that cocoa farms, a crucial part of Ghana’s economy, are also being destroyed in regions like Sendu and Jirabanso. The polluted rivers and poisoned farmlands are slowly exposing the population to severe health risks, including heavy metal contamination, which could lead to brain, kidney, and reproductive issues.
They are calling on the government to declare a state of emergency, halt mining activities within river buffers, and cancel all mining permits in protected forest areas. These groups are also urging presidential candidates to support the fight against illegal mining to prevent further environmental and human loss.
In a related development, the Convener of the Media Coalition Against Illegal Mining, Dr. Ing. Kenneth Ashigbey, has rubbished the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources Samuel Jinapor so called measures to deal with the illegal mining activities.
According to Dr Ashigbey, the Minister does not fully grasp the severity of illegal mining activities on water bodies and human life as a whole.
His comments come in response to the Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources reiterating the government’s commitment to promoting sustainable and legal mining practices in Ghana.
Mr Jinapor among other things, highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to combat illegal mining, or “galamsey,” which have been intensified under the current administration.
Key initiatives include the deployment of anti-galamsey task forces, stricter monitoring of mining sites, and enhanced enforcement of mining regulations. These measures are intended to clamp down on illegal operations while fostering sustainable practices in the sector.
He also mentioned that a meeting has been called with regional ministers to find lasting solutions.
However, Dr Ashigbey argues that the Mr Jinapor’s response to the menace proves that he does not fully understand the severity of the issue on human life.
Speaking on Joy FM’s Top Story on Wednesday, he said there was nothing new and useful in the minister’s release to ending the menace.
“You see that the Minister for Lands and Natural Resources does not get it. What is new amongst the things that he said? All these things that you are doing, you have been doing it and turbidity of water is at 14,000 NTU and you say regional minister?” he quizzed.
Mr Ashigbey said regional ministers drive past and see the illegality, but they do not have the capacity to handle the canker.
He stressed that the actions mentioned “do not satisfy what we are asking for. It just shows that they don’t realize we are in a crisis. It tells you that they don’t see the enormity of the challenges we are facing.”
In a moving and inspirational homily delivered on the Third Sunday of Advent, known as Gaudete Sunday, Rev. Fr. Michael Dziwornu Etsey of the Holy Spirit Cathedral in Adabraka, Accra, encouraged the faithful to embrace the joy and hope of this sacred time.
Gaudete Sunday, positioned a few days before Christmas, is a day of celebration and rejoicing within the Christian calendar. It signifies the halfway point of the Advent season, a period of anticipation and readiness for the birth of Jesus Christ.
The rose-colored vestments worn by clergy and the lighting of the rose-colored candle in the Advent wreath symbolize this joyous occasion.
In his homily, Rev. Fr. Etsey reminded the congregation of the profound significance of Gaudete Sunday, urging them to rejoice in the promise of salvation and the coming of the Messiah. He highlighted the readings for this Sunday, which center on the theme of joy and celebration.
“The term ‘Gaudete’ is of Latin origin, meaning ‘Rejoice,'” Rev. Fr. Etsey conveyed. “The readings for this Sunday exhort us to do just that – to exclaim joy, to sing joyfully, to rejoice in the Lord always.”
The priest stressed the importance of maintaining this spirit of rejoicing, even amidst the challenges and difficulties that arise in daily life. “In a world often overshadowed by darkness and despair, we are called to be the light,” Rev. Fr. Etsey emphasized.
“We are called to embrace the joy and hope that this Advent season brings, and let it inspire us to instigate the change we desire to see in our beloved Ghana.”
He reminded the congregation that the readings for Gaudete Sunday, notably the testimony of John the Baptist, speak of preparation and anticipation for the coming of the Messiah.
“John the Baptist proclaims, ‘I am the voice of one crying out in the desert, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord!'” Rev. Fr. Etsey quoted.
“This message of preparation and vigilance lies at the core of the Advent season, and it is a call that we must heed with renewed fervor.” Rev. Fr. Etsey’s words deeply resonated with the faithful, who acknowledged the weight and significance of his message. He drew a compelling connection between the joy and hope of Gaudete Sunday and the societal challenges facing Ghana.
“In this season of rejoicing, we must also remember our duty to our fellow citizens. We are tasked to be the voice of reason and justice, to advocate for the marginalized and oppressed, and to diligently work towards constructing a more just and equitable society,” Rev. Fr. Etsey stated.
The congregation erupted into applause at the conclusion of the homily, underscoring the impact of the priest’s words and the importance of his message.
As the service drew to a close, the faithful departed the cathedral infused with a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to carry the spirit of Gaudete Sunday throughout the remaining Advent season.
“We cannot afford to be complacent in the face of the forthcoming challenges,” remarked one parishioner. “We must heed our priest’s words and embrace the joy and hope that this season brings, utilizing it as a guiding light in our pursuit of a more just and equitable society.”
As the Advent season progresses, the faithful of the Holy Spirit Cathedral and across Ghana will undoubtedly uphold the spirit of Gaudete Sunday, using it as a source of strength and inspiration in their daily lives.
The message of rejoicing and vigilance, as articulated by Rev. Fr. Etsey, is poised to resonate with the hearts and minds of the Ghanaian people, motivating them to effect positive change in their cherished country.
It remains unclear if organized labor was swayed by President Akufo-Addo during the critical meeting held on October 3, 2024, to delay their planned nationwide strike against the escalating issue of illegal mining.
While discussions unfolded, the Minerals Commission proceeded to grant multiple new mining licenses to small-scale mining enterprises in a seemingly cavalier manner.
On the very day of the meeting, the Commission astonishingly issued a total of eleven (11) fresh licenses to various small-scale mining companies as recorded in the Ghana Minerals Repository.
Among the recipients were Richland Mining and Trading Enterprise (License Code SSML-T243/2024), Confidence Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T245/2024), Adjoebia Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T235/2024), Gradey Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T239/2024), Tekyi Miresu Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T242/2024), and Precious Awudu Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T241/2024). Additionally, licenses were granted to Internal Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T238/2024), Osagyefo Aba Mining and Trading Enterprise (License Code SSML-T237/2024), and Adikanfo Titifou Mining and Trading Enterprise (License Code SSML-T244/2024).
The Minerals Commission also allocated licenses to Adjeibia Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T236/2024) and Teky Miresu Mining Enterprise (License Code SSML-T240/2024).
According to records on the Ghana Mining Repository, the Minerals Commission has issued a staggering total of 2,251 licenses, including one with a projected commencement date of January 19, 2025, to New Mont Golden Ridge Limited.
In the preceding meeting with organized labor, President Akufo-Addo implored for the postponement of the impending nationwide strike against ‘galamsey’ on October 10, 2024, on the premise that he could address the galamsey crisis given more time, despite having scant months left in office.
The environmental degradation caused by illegal mining looms, with no feasible resolution achievable before the president’s term ends.
As the impending election draws near in December, Ghanaians are poised to elect a new leader who will inherit the challenges of galamsey left unaddressed by the current administration.
President Akufo-Addo’s failure to effectively combat illegal mining, evident in the widespread destruction caused under his tenure, underscores the urgent need for decisive action to protect Ghana’s environment and natural resources.
Despite the establishment of various committees and task forces to combat galamsey during his term, the pervasive influence of government officials and their associates implicated in the illegal mining industry continues to impede progress.
Allegations linking figures such as President Akufo-Addo’s hometown chief, Osagyefuo Amoatia Ofori-Panin, to illicit mining activities further exacerbate the government’s shortcomings in curtailing the destructive impacts of galamsey.
The renowned South African songstress, Yvonne Chaka Chaka, has joined the chorus decrying the pervasive illegal mining activities that have plagued Ghana.
Acknowledging the intricate nature of the issue, she has implored the government to take resolute action in tackling the underlying causes of illegal mining.
Addressing President Nana Akufo-Addo, she urged him to heed the voices of the youth and implement practical measures to foster a more inclusive and thriving Ghana.
“We cannot overlook the plight of young individuals who engage in illegal mining due to lack of employment opportunities.
It is their desperation to provide for themselves and their families that drives them into this illicit activity—I do not endorse it,” she remarked.
The esteemed songstress urged President Akufo-Addo to act conscientiously for the well-being of Ghanaians. “Mr. President, the youth are advocating for solutions. The time has come to move beyond mere words and take tangible steps.
We urge you to translate your vision into actions so that the nation’s mineral wealth benefits all, ensuring access to clean water for everyone. As we speak of governance by the people, let their voices guide your decisions.”
Chaka Chaka lamented the extensive and detrimental consequences of illegal mining on the younger generation, stressing that the issue “casts a dark shadow everywhere, including South Africa.
” She urged the government to undertake adequate measures to combat the scourge and restore Ghana’s depleted forest cover and ravaged lands.
The celebrated singer, currently in Ghana for the African Legends Night, disclosed plans to appeal to President Akufo-Addo during an upcoming Global Citizen meeting in Ivory Coast to prioritize the fight against galamsey.
“We have a critical opportunity to address this pressing issue at the upcoming Global Citizen assembly in Ivory Coast. President Akufo-Addo will be present, and I will personally convey the urgency of curbing illegal mining to prevent further suffering among the youth.”
Expressing deep-seated concern over the adverse effects of galamsey on the youth, Chaka Chaka advocated for a transformation in the status quo.
The South African music icon is slated as one of the headline artists for this year’s African Legends Night held at the Grand Arena in Accra on Saturday, October 5.
Joining a stellar lineup featuring Okyeame Kwame, George Jahraa, and Adane Best, she underscored the spirit of unity among performers.
“I do not consider myself the main act—I view Okyeame Kwame, George Jahraa, and Adane Best as my fellow artists. This is a collaborative effort.
Whenever I perform, I aim to foster a sense of belonging within the community. Let me say to them, we are all part of one people.”
Chaka Chaka, having pledged to mesmerize fans with an exceptional performance, extended gratitude to the event organizers, Global Media Alliance, for curating such a grand show.
Meanwhile, Ghanaian rapper, M.anifest, voiced dismay over the police’s refusal to grant bail to the Democracy Hub protesters detained on September 22, 2024.
In a social media post, M.anifest decried the “punitive actions” demonstrated by the police and criticized some locals for endorsing such police behavior.
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